News

14/07/2009

Local MP celebrates youth facilities in Durham

Picture of Roberta talking with young people at the Durham Climbing Centre

Local MP and Assistant Regional Minister for the North East, Roberta Blackman-Woods, took part in the Department for Children, Schools and Families Open Weekend to celebrate Government investment in youth facilities.

 

She visited Durham Climbing Centre in Meadowfield last Friday (11th July) a local venture set up by Kevin Milburn and Hayley McKenna. During her visit Roberta was able to talk with centre managers and visiting young people as well as having the opportunity to try out the facilities for herself.

 

The Open Weekend is a national event co-ordinated by DCSF to celebrate Government investment in youth activities, especially those available on Friday and Saturday evenings when traditionally fewer facilities have been available. Recent studies have shown a reduction in youth crime in areas where youth facilities have been provided and Open Weekend aims to involve young people in decisions over their facilities.

 

Speaking after the event Roberta said:

 

"I was delighted to be able to come and see this fantastic centre for myself. Just talking with the young people, I could tell their enthusiasm and energy and I want to congratulate Kevin and Hayley and all involved for establishing and developing this great facility for Durham.

  

Too often Government only gets credit for investment in schools and we need to recognise the substantial funding that has gone into out of school facilities and activities. We must not lose sight of the fact that young people, just like adults, see the weekend as a time for fun and relaxation and that is why the Government is committed to supporting centres like this. "

 

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